Strange

I have never witnessed anyone healed in this manner, but I have seen strange things. Leaving the house after visiting the family of a teenage boy who committed suicide, I pondered what I had heard and seen. There was anger, frustration, pain, tears. But it was what the old grandfather said that impressed me. “Pastor, all we can do is throw ourselves into God’s arms. He will take care of us.” Hope in the midst of despair. Strange.

Over the years I have been with some of God’s people who were dying or grieving, suffering from cancer or job loss, battling addictions or struggling with identity. And in the midst of their pain and struggle, I have seen the calming, comforting hand of Jesus. Strange as it might seem, there was peace.

That’s what Jesus brings. Peace, the assurance that despite appearances, we’ll be okay because Jesus holds us in his arms. Strange.

The crowds in our text were outraged that Jesus forgave sins; that was God’s prerogative alone. They were overjoyed but bewildered that the paralyzed man walked; they had never witnessed anything like it. Strange stuff.

And they believed. They praised God. They feared the majesty of God, but they had not the words to express it. All they could say was, “Strange.”

You do strange things in, to and through us, Lord Jesus. Praise your glorious name. Amen. — DAB